Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My 10 year old female manx/Birman has always been a little bit of a talker, but only when she's hungry or wants attention. It was never much of a problem until recently. She loves going outside at night when the weather is nice and has been known to stay out all night sometimes. Starting about a month or 2 ago, she started meowing constantly when she's in the house-during the day or at night. she keeps me up all night if I don't let her out! Then she runs back into the house every time the door is open, only to go out another door. She has also been licking herself non-stop (she's always been a bit of a cleaner, but it's ALL the time it seems now!) I'm going crazy and have missed sleep over her incessant meowing lately. I hate leaving her out all night, as I worry whether she'll come home beaten up or at all sometimes.

I don't know what to do about the meowing though. She is due for her yearly shots next month and I am going to ask the vet if he has any suggestions. I worry that maybe there is something wrong with her that I am unaware of. Any suggestions? Thanks so much!

A vet check up might be a very good thing - since she seems to be agitated and licks herself a lot.

Although it may be irritating, you should not respond at all to her meowing. Don't even look at her. In the rare times when she is quiet fuss over her and slip her a treat and say, good, quiet or something like that.
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

Hi,

There is a possibility that your cat is losing her hearing and/or sight. Cats that are going blind or deaf often suddenly become more vocal. So do cats with hyperthyrodism. The restlessness can also be a sign that she isn't feeling well.

I recommend taking her in for an exam, full blood panel, and urinalysis ASAP. I would also keep her indoors. Outdoors is way too dangerous for cats, especially seniors.

I feel that whenever there is a change in a cat's behavior, especially an older cat, you should first find out if there is a physical problem. Senior kitties are at high risk for so many things. Most of these problems are treatable, and the sooner treatment is started, the better.

Please try to get your baby in sooner and let us know what happens.

Regards,
PHKitkat